China warns U.S. official to stop interfering in HKSAR Article 23 legislation

China on Friday warned U.S. Consul General in Hong Kong Gregory May to stop smearing the legislation on Article 23 of the Basic Law after May said that Hong Kong is losing freedom during a recent interview.

The consultation document of the Article 23 made clear that rights and freedoms which Hong Kong residents enjoy under the Basic Law, and the provisions of relevant international conventions shall be protected, said a spokesperson for the Commissioner's Office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

The document also emphasized that it would take into account the concerns of the Hong Kong residents and foreign communities in Hong Kong, keep the unique advantage and status of the HKSAR and ensure the smooth operation of international exchange activities, the spokesperson said.

Hong Kong remains a hot spot for talents, business investment, and capital, while the enactment of the legislation on Article 23 will further enhance social stability and the certainty of the rule of law, according to the spokesperson.

May's irresponsible remarks deviated from the professional ethics and codes of conduct of a consular official, the commission's office said, adding that his act is further proof of the U.S. side intervening in Hong Kong affairs.

"We urge the U.S. side to respect China's sovereignty, observe the principles guiding international law and the basic norms governing international relations, and immediately stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are China's internal affairs," the spokesperson said, echoing Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning's remarks earlier on Friday.

(Cover: View of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China. /CFP)